Notes and Documents for the Play Rudolf of Habsburg

Rud. Then I send word to my gracious Lord of the same regarding his, the Lord... and so on. If you have nothing further, you may go
(wishes to leave)
Burthard. Listen, that is the Bishop's commission. I, for my own person, respect and love you, and would gladly see the matter end well. One knows full well what good designs you have for the people of Strasbourg... the citizenry is entirely on your side. But the Bishop is being so strict and keeps them under his thumb. I can use this mission on the Bishop's side, if you wish, to secretly offer the citizens that they should value you only for the meaning of the castle and let you in through the castle gate.
Rud. I trust in the free, bishop-independent will of the citizenry. But to accept the base message from your mouth is unworthy.
Burthard. I took my castle Landskron from you as a fief, if you wish, as proof that I am loyal to you and have the mindset of a nobleman.
Rud. You are sacrificing much.
Burthard. I also have much to hope for. A beloved child as the wife of the mayor's daughter, if you liberate the citizenry, has been promised to me by the council.
And much more: You have the crown, Strasbourg too. Beware of the likely referring to a specific rival or agent Goting. Beware of him; the little daughter, who is so dear to you, the Bishop has spoken to him about her, to lure you into ruin as a dissembling friend.
Rud. What you say.
Burthard. But since one counts on you at the castle gate.
Burthard. I shall take the letter from you there with full confidence.
(Burthard exits)

Rud. The war is truly already quite appalling, one wounds and defeats the enemy with a rare superiority, the victory thus, and deceit. Yet, he is a welcome—but also a traitor to me! Therefore he withdrew: but he looks so honest. It shall nevertheless be within you that I dare to risk the danger, as a complaint with lies might strike suspicion. Princes are loyal! The people should now treat themselves to something good, they may rest, forget, pretend rest from this night and its sleep-watch; the comrade shall become a sister.
(to himself) or easier, all the better! I will choose Epting as my guide! Only trust may it be, go, and does the name really find a traitor's enterprise?